Yearly, it by no means will get outdated.
The anticipation for the bracket.
The adrenaline rush and dopamine hit as you see every staff, every matchup, every area and all 68 groups fill on CBS.
Now we all know who’s in. And whether or not you are a diehard school hoops fan or a drive-by informal who’s solely simply leaping into the deep finish of the pool (to your workplace pool), you’ve got come to the suitable spot. This can be a crash course on each staff within the 2026 event area. We’re about to enter the ultimate stage of what is been arguably one of the best season of school basketball previously decade, if no more. The staff high quality among the many Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4 and even 5-seeds is a notch or two above quite a lot of the years we have had.
It made doing my annual rankings much more troublesome — and that rather more enjoyable. My rankings aren’t in keeping with staff seeds. It is a projection of who I feel is one of the best, general, from 1 to 68. I keep in mind current performances for positive; I am attempting to provide you a snapshot of how all 68 tier out as they prepared for one of the best sporting occasion on the earth.
You prepared? Not but, you are not. Scroll by means of and get to know somewhat bit extra about each staff on this yr’s Large Dance. The primary sport will likely be underway earlier than you already know it.
Brackets are right here! Get your swimming pools prepared and enter our Bracket Problem to your probability to win a dream journey to the 2027 Last 4Ⓡ.
1. Arizona (32-2)
That is such a tricky name, and the margins are so slim, however I consider one of the best staff proper now, pound-for-pound, is Tommy Lloyd’s Wildcats. I noticed them in individual on the Large 12 Event. They could have six future NBA gamers. The pinnacle of the snake is Large 12 Participant of the 12 months Jaden Bradley, who hit an all-timer within the Large 12 semis to beat Iowa State. There’s 2026 lottery choose Brayden Burries, who leads the staff at 15.9 factors per sport.
Fellow freshman Koa Peat is a brawny bruiser, and but he isn’t even the strongest participant on the roster. That will be sixth man Tobe Awaka, who seems to be like he can bench press a home. German wing Ivan Kharchenkov performs like he is 25, whereas massive man Mo Krivas is a 7-2 monster across the rim. Arizona isn’t unbeatable, but it surely has no weaknesses: high 5 in offensive effectivity, high three in defensive effectivity. Beat 12 ranked groups this season, tying Duke for essentially the most ever heading into an NCAA Event. The very best, narrowly.
2. Michigan (31-3)
The very best Michigan staff in historical past. Dusty Could has assembled a juggernaut, and it begins with somebody who’s fated to be a First Staff All-American, ahead Yaxel Lendeborg. The combo ahead does fairly actually every part on the ground. Excellent defender, prepared passer, good shooter from distance, actual bruiser within the paint. He is marvelous, however there’s a lot extra right here.
The Wolverines boast the No. 1 protection in school basketball, anchored by 7-2 Aday Mara within the center and bolstered on the perimeter with Roddy Gayle and Nimari Burnett, two veteran U-M guys. This staff gained by double digits 16 instances over Large Ten foes. It beat Gonzaga by 40 again in November. I noticed it in individual, and it was some of the spectacular nonconference wins I’ve ever seen. I do not take a lot inventory into the Large Ten title sport loss to Purdue. The Wolverines are nonetheless a drive even with out backup level guard LJ Cason.
3. Duke (32-2)
The Blue Devils are rightfully the No. 1 general seed, however I am placing Jon Scheyer’s staff third (barely) as a result of unsure state of affairs with Patrick Ngongba’s well being and the unlikelihood that beginning combo guard Caleb Foster will likely be out there within the NCAA Event. Then once more, Cameron Boozer is perhaps the winningest participant by means of his first 18 years of taking part in basketball since Lew Alcindor, so who is aware of when this staff is shedding.
The Blue Devils undeniably get to assert one of the best participant in school basketball. Boozer has been extra productive and beneficial than Cooper Flagg was a season in the past: 22.5 factors, 10.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.5 steals per sport. He is unstoppable and unflappable. Duke has Isaiah Evans to depend on from deep, and Dame Sarr is rising as a breakout man and defensive menace. But it surely now looks like Cayden Boozer‘s emergence as a place to begin guard in Foster’s stead would be the key as to whether this staff could make the Last 4 … or win all of it.
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4. Houston (28-6)
Longtime readers know that I do not listing my high 4 groups in accordance with NCAA seeding. Generally the 4 greatest groups are the 4 No. 1s, however I feel Houston‘s fourth within the pecking order heading into this event. Kingston Flemings (16.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg) is the most important cause why. The stud freshman level guard and potential top-five choose has a gear and savvy to his sport that few others can declare. This is not Houston’s greatest protection beneath Kelvin Sampson, however it’s a staff that has one of the best mixture of defensive prowess, NBA-level expertise, veterans within the backcourt and game-changing size within the frontcourt. Did not win the Large 12, I do know. Is not one of the best staff on this event, I do know. But it surely’s nonetheless able to profitable six.
5. Florida (26-7)
The reigning champions have one of the best frontcourt in school basketball. Alex Condon, Thomas Haugh, Rueben Chinyelu and Micah Handlogten are a matchup nightmare, collectively, and have turned Florida into one of the best rebounding staff general in school hoops. Monsters on the glass. Bodily because the day is lengthy. Haugh’s instincts and motor are ridiculous. Chinyelu is perhaps one of the best defender in school hoops. Florida’s possibilities to win all of it will come down to 2 elements. No. 1: The consistency of Boogie Fland and Xaivian Lee within the backcourt. Neither performed on final yr’s title staff. They’ve grown into a pleasant combo, however it is time to up the extent. No. 2: The three-point capturing. Florida is 324th nationally from deep (30.8%). It would must be significantly better than that to win a second straight ‘ship.
6. Iowa State (27-7)
TJ Otzelberger’s staff is among the many steadiest in school hoops. Received at Purdue by 23. Beat St. John’s, Houston, Kansas, Texas Tech. Was a buzzer-beater away from probably beating Arizona within the Large 12 semifinals. Can undoubtedly win the nationwide championship if it performs to its ceiling in nearly each sport over the subsequent three weekends. The very best participant is Joshua Jefferson (16.9 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 4.9 apg), a do-it-all combo ahead who would not have a sport with flash however is unimaginable to get out of kinds. Then there’s one of the best shooter in school hoops: Milan Momcilovic makes 49.6% of his 3s as a movable 6-8 ahead. Such a tough task. The whole lot flows from Tamin Lipsey on the level, a veteran presence who is a superb defender and loving passer. Don’t sleep on this staff, I am telling you.
7. Illinois (24-8)
The second-most environment friendly offense in school basketball. (Purdue jumped ’em due to Sunday’s Large Ten title win.) Brad Underwood’s staff would have two or three fewer losses if it had been stiffer on the defensive facet, however this group can actually fill it up. The irony is that Illinois makes 35% of its 3-pointers and is not within the high 100 in accuracy. But it surely is aware of how one can make the most of the passing lanes, take good photographs and is one of the best free-throw capturing staff of any title contender (79%). When you ask me to provide the three most dependable groups to supply essentially the most entertaining sport of this yr’s NCAA Event, I might have Illinois on that listing. Freshman level guard Keaton Wagler (17.9 ppg) has been the shock star of this unbelievable class this season, and he is surrounded by a bevy of Balkan-bred ballers, most prominently Tomislav Ivišić and David Mirkovic.
8. Michigan State (25-7)
The Spartans’ snake head is Jeremy Fears Jr., an exquisite level guard whose status has additionally taken successful due to a number of incidents of kicks and groin photographs in Large Ten play. He eliminates that, and he is a pleasure to look at. Tom Izzo has one more staff able to making a Last 4. If that occurs, it might be his ninth. The Spartans roster a man who a lot of you’re already fairly acquainted with: Coen Carr. He is one of the best in-game dunker in basketball (NBA included) and possibly one of the best ever? His athleticism, fearlessness and leaping skill are jaw-dropping. But when MSU goes to threaten to get to Indy, then it’s going to be due to massive man Carson Cooper and senior mainstay Jaxon Kohler. Their growth on this program is why I’ve obtained Sparty ranked so excessive.
9. Purdue (27-8)
Purdue restored a LOT luster within the Large Ten Event after shedding 4 of its remaining six regular-season video games. The Large Ten champs over Michigan, and now what can we make of this staff? The whole lot seems to be prefer it’s coming collectively. I will remind you that the predictive metrics have maintained this can be a top-10 posse your complete season, by the way in which. Purdue was preseason No. 1, and it hasn’t seemed like a top-five staff for the previous two months. Now it is undoubtedly top-10 materials, and it earned that 2-seed as properly. Braden Smith is ready to grow to be the all-time assists chief in Purdue’s subsequent sport, and between the way in which he is taking part in, Oscar Cluff has become a monster and Trey Kaufman-Renn‘s regular play, Matt Painter’s staff enters the Large Dance with Last 4 hopes — and legit ones at that.
10. Connecticut (29-5)
Regardless of going 1-2 towards St. John’s and never assembly the second on Saturday evening, I nonetheless suppose this staff and training workers are able to making the Last 4 and placing collectively a 3rd run in 4 years to the promised land. That is the final go-around for senior Alex Karaban, who’s flanked by Solo Ball and Braylon Mullins. The previous hasn’t been as impactful as a shooter this season as anticipated, whereas the latter is blooming right into a terrific freshman game-changer for the Huskies. In the end, I feel the presence and consistency of senior heart Tarris Reed Jr. is what is going to dictate UConn‘s hopes over the subsequent week or two or three. Reed has had some excellent video games this season and must impose his will with a view to make issues a bit extra free-flowing for the fellows round him. Will be aware that time guard Silas Demay Jr. obtained banged up within the Large East remaining, however he is anticipated to be good for the sport vs. Furman later this week.
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11. Gonzaga (30-3)
That is the ninth time Mark Few has guided Gonzaga to a 30-win marketing campaign, which is, after all, outrageous for a small college within the outpost of the Pacific Northwest. Gonzaga ascended to high-major standing properly over a decade in the past, although, and but once more the Zags have dudes able to going deep within the Large Dance.
The very best of them is Graham Ike, a fifth-year senior averaging 19.7 factors and eight.2 rebounds. The query is, will Braden Huff be capable of play, and in that case, can he be efficient? Huff has handled a severe knee harm since mid-January and it is not promising he’ll be an element. Gonzaga’s solely misplaced twice since then, however the ante is about to get upped. If GU goes to attempt to make one more Candy 16 (or higher), sixth-year senior Tyon Grant-Foster and freshman Davis Fogle might want to contribute all the identical in Huff’s stead.
12. Nebraska (26-6)
If Miami (Ohio) College’s run to 31-0 was one of the best story of the common season, would possibly I recommend Nebraska‘s program-record 26-6 marketing campaign and frequent placement inside the highest 10 of the AP rankings as No. 2? Fred Hoiberg is into account for Nationwide Coach of the 12 months for what he is performed in Lincoln this season. The Cornhuskers began 20-0 and have been an exciting look ahead to the previous four-plus months.
Pryce Sandfort leads the staff in scoring (17.8 factors), but it surely’s Fred’s son, Sam, who’s the defensive stalwart and compass information for this staff’s top-10 protection. You get some worldwide taste with the Dutchman, Rienk Mast, besides. NU is infamously the ONLY power-conference staff with out an NCAA Event win in its historical past. That ends this week.
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13. Arkansas (26-8)
Now we have no scarcity of sensible freshmen this season. Now we have no scarcity of must-see gamers, too. If I needed to choose three or 4 guys that I might put on the high of my listing of Should-See Gamers, Arkansas has one. Darius Acuff Jr. is a First Staff All-American so far as I am involved, and if he improves upon his averages (22.7 factors, 6.4 assists, 3.2 rebounds) within the NCAA Event, he’ll have a case as one of the best guard Calipari’s ever coached. He is additionally the primary SEC participant since Pete Maravich to steer the league in scoring and assists. Toss in abilities like Meleek Thomas, Trevon Brazile, Billy Richmond III and this group is harmful and dazzling.
14. Vanderbilt (26-8)
Vanderbilt surprisingly earned a No. 5 seed on Choice Sunday regardless of reaching the SEC title sport; the choice was indefensible, IMO. However a 13-year drought ought to absolutely come to an finish this week. Vandy final gained an NCAA tourney sport in 2012, however this squad is able to attempt to make a Last 4 push behind probably the greatest level guards within the nation, Tyler Tanner. The 5-11 native product nearly by no means makes the mistaken play. And with Duke Miles again and wholesome after struggling a knee harm midseason, Vanderbilt seems to be eager, imply and lean. This staff is nice from the foul line (79%) and has a top-10 offense in school basketball. I additionally like a staff that may put collectively a protracted profitable streak: Vandy began the season 16-0 and had no scarcity of wins over future NCAA Event groups in that run. Do not underrate this group simply because it is not a March mainstay. Mark Byington is a legit coach and Vanderbilt is fortunate to have him.
15. St. John’s (28-6)
The Large East was fashioned in 1979, and till Saturday evening, no staff had ever gained the common season and postseason championships in back-to-back years. Rick Pitino’s Purple Storm did it. It is why the Johnnies obtained to the 4-line, too. They did it with the second-best massive man in school basketball within the center. Zuby Ejiofor’s (16.3 ppg, 7.1 rpg, 2.1 bpg) senior season has been his greatest. The solid round him is tough-minded (it’s important to be with a view to play for Pitino), however Ejiofor is the supply of every part SJU is able to. The Johnnies are 19-1 of their final 20 video games and have been the Tenth-most environment friendly staff within the nation in that stretch, in keeping with BartTorvik.com.
16. Alabama (23-9)
Do not go considering the Tide are run-of-the-mill simply because they had been instantly bounced within the SEC Event by Mississippi. This staff boasts a blur of a backcourt combo between Labaron Philon and Aden Holloway, who’re good for 38.5 factors and eight.5 assists per sport. Nate Oats’ staff likes to run and shoot: Bama is fourth in adjusted possessions per sport (73.2) and launches extra 3-pointers per evening than anybody: 35.3! May very well be a feast-or-famine staff within the bracket, however Oats has made a Last 4 lately and has the offensive dynamism to win 4 as properly … however the protection cannot be matador-esque to ensure that that to occur.
17. Virginia (29-5)
One of many quietest 29-win seasons from a Energy 5 staff you will ever see. Ryan Odom is definitely one of the best 12 months 1 rent on the power-conference degree this season, as he is guided the Wahoos again to prominence instantly within the ACC. UVa was second within the ACC and has an ideal seed due to a terrifically constructed roster that has dimension, pace, capturing, rebound prowess and would not get rattled. Like, ever. Belgian ahead Thijs De Ridder is the first man right here, however in case you watch this staff you already know it is obtained six guys able to being The Man on a given evening: SG Malik Thomas, CG Dallin Corridor, C Johan Grunloh and SF Sam Lewis spherical out the beginning 5 … after which Likelihood Mallory comes off the bench however is a clutch-time participant who is perhaps one of the best sixth-man guard in school hoops. Toss in Ugonna Onenso (NINE blocks within the ACC title sport) and this staff is nice sufficient to make the Last 4.
18. Wisconsin (24-10)
The Badgers may very well be a classy Elite Eight choose in your workplace pool. Greg Gard’s staff has defeated Illinois (twice), Michigan, Michigan State and Purdue this season. They’re knocking on the door of being a top-10 offense whereas additionally not often turning the ball over. And Nick Boyd is taking part in at an All-American degree in current weeks. Boyd’s 20.6 factors per sport leads the staff, but it surely’s just one.6 forward of backcourt mate John Blackwell. Come to consider it, Wisconsin has a top-three backcourt within the nation once you consider Nolan Winter, who hopes to play after hurting his ankle 5 video games again. Add in Austin Rapp’s six 3s within the second half vs. Michigan and it is exhausting to choose towards this staff’s Candy 16 possibilities.
19. Kansas (23-10)
Kansas is as unpredictable as any staff you will see within the high six or seven seed strains (and it should not have been a 4). The very best information for the Jayhawks is the minutes consistency from potential No. 1 choose Darryn Peterson, who’s performed at the very least 28 minutes in seven consecutive video games. Peterson’s shot effectivity has dropped off in that stretch, although. Is that this lastly his second, or will KU flame out for a 3rd straight season? One man to look at who’s decided to not make that occur: level guard Melvin Council Jr. He is obtained a takeover gene that, when it prompts, is so enjoyable to look at. There’s additionally Flory Bidunga’s elite defensive prowess as properly. Oh, and Tre White was in all probability the Large 12’s most underrated participant this season.
20. Texas Tech (22-10)
The Purple Raiders are attempting to drag off a Last 4 run with out their All-American ahead JT Toppin, who went down for the season with an ACL harm on Feb. 17. Since that harm, TTU is 3-3. Star guard Christian Anderson (a possible All-American himself) now carries a heavy load, however he is obtained some assist with teammate Donovan Atwell, who hits 45% of his 3s. Grant McCasland is rising up the ranks among the many greatest coaches within the nation. TTU was a number of performs away from making the Last 4 a yr in the past. Can the Purple Raiders muster sufficient spirit to get that far once more? I hate that we do not get to see Toppin on the ground, as a result of with him, this might be a viable risk to get to Indianapolis.
21. Tennessee (22-11)
The truth that I’ve the Vols at No. 21 means two issues. No. 1, I am in all probability being too harsh and this rating may age terribly within the subsequent seven days. But in addition: The highest three layers of groups this season have been significantly better than normal. Rick Barnes’ squad has a veteran level guard in Ja’Kobi Gillespie (18.0 ppg) and a easy freshman wing in Nate Ament (17.5 ppg). But when you will beat this staff, it is advisable to show your brawn on the boards. UT grabs 45% of its missed photographs. It’s, unquestionably, one of the best second- and third-chance squad in school hoops.
22. Louisville (23-10)
One large query surrounding this staff: How wholesome is Mikel Brown Jr.? The freshman would’ve been an excellent greater star this season had he not missed 12 video games as a consequence of harm. He is had a lingering again drawback, however Brown’s anticipated to go. That is 2 for two NCAA tourney runs for second-year Playing cards coach Pat Kelsey, who has restored the delight in Louisville with aplomb. A possible breakout star this week is capturing guard Ryan Conwell, who’s a profession 37% 3-point shooter and might want to spark U of L’s O with a view to get this staff a win or two.
23. Saint Mary’s (27-5)
Gaels coach Randy Bennett is nothing wanting essentially the most underappreciated coach in school basketball. This yr marks the fifth consecutive tourney journey for SMC and the thirteenth time general that Saint Mary’s has had an NCAA Event-level squad. Ahead Paulius Marauskas is a STUD. Averages a team-best 18.8 factors and seven.7 rebounds whereas being an 84% free throw shooter. Talking of foul capturing, Saint Mary’s ranks No. 1 in America at 81.1%. Most likely should not choose this staff to be one-and-done.
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24. BYU (23-11)
The Cougars have essentially the most must-watch participant in school basketball, dynamic freshman ahead AJ Dybantsa. The Brockton, Mass., native goes to be one of many few freshman ever (and the primary since Oklahoma’s Trae Younger in 2018) to steer the nation in scoring. He is at 25.3 per sport, comfortably No. 1, and I count on him to go for at the very least 30 in BYU’s first spherical matchup.
The Cougars aren’t good defensively and do not have their second-best participant, Richie Saunders, as a consequence of a season-ending ACL harm. However the offense is dynamic and Rob Wright III is a superb Robin to Dybantsa’s Batman. How lengthy can they stick round?
25. Villanova (24-8)
Now that is extra prefer it. After a three-year NCAAs drought, VU is again within the event and right here due to first-year coach Kevin Willard. The Large East solely put three groups into the sector this yr, tying a league-worst in its near-50-year historical past, however Villanova is again and sporting residence whites due to having 5 guys averaging double figures, led by junior guard Tyler Perkins’ 13.7 factors per sport. Nova’s greatest win this season: over Wisconsin (in OT) in Milwaukee.
26. Kentucky (21-13)
The Wildcats are like a field of sweets: You by no means know what you are going to get. Mark Pope’s staff this yr is not nearly as good because the No. 3 seed that reached the Candy 16 final yr, however they’ve nonetheless obtained All-SEC guard Otega Oweh, who’s among the many most dependable two-way guys in high-major hoops. If the Wildcats can keep away from getting off to a sluggish begin, it improves their possibilities at profitable exponentially. The X issue is Collin Chandler, a 43% 3-point shooter.
27. UCLA (23-11)
The Bruins made it to the Large Ten semifinals earlier than being bounced whereas shorthanded towards Purdue. The excellent news is that Mick Cronin’s two greatest gamers are anticipated to be out there for the primary spherical. Tyler Bilodeau (knee pressure) will not be 100%, however he is essential for UCLA’s possibilities to advance. Much more so: Donovan Dent. The purpose guard with spurtability has an insane 13-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio in his final eight video games. UCLA is attempting to achieve at the very least the Candy 16 for the fourth time beneath Cronin.
28. Ohio State (21-12)
With all due respect to each different participant in scarlet and grey, I’m dedicating the whole thing of this capsule to Buckeyes senior Bruce Thornton. He’s the varsity’s all-time main scorer (2,154) and has performed 135 video games for OSU — and began EVERY one in every of them. His averages in 2025-26: 20.2 factors, 4.0 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 40% from past the arc. A humble star who deserves this second. Will his greatest one arrive in just some days?
29. North Carolina (24-8)
The Tar Heels would possibly’ve been in my high 20 if not for the season-ending damaged thumb to their greatest participant, Caleb Wilson. I am unable to assist however marvel if the staff has a tough ceiling now with out him. Hubert Davis’ staff ranks exterior the highest 30 at KenPom in offensive and defensive effectivity as properly. But it surely beat Duke, has a key veteran guard in Seth Trimble (an ideal defender) and an exasperating task for opposing bigs with Henri Veesaar. A Candy 16 run would make this an ideal yr.
30. Utah State (28-6)
The double champs of the Mountain West within the league’s remaining yr earlier than a downgrade. And likewise the one Mountain West staff within the area this season. The Aggies have an superior 1-2 duo of MJ Collins and Mason Falslev. Two guys with candy capturing strokes, tremendous playmaking instincts and the potential to knock off numerous better-seeded groups. A sleeper risk to achieve the Candy 16?
31. Iowa (21-12)
There are quite a lot of colleges which can be dancing of their first seasons with a brand new coach. Iowa is amongst that group. Ben McCollum’s staff performs by means of every part that whiz level guard Bennett Stirtz instructions. Stirtz, who has taken the journey with McCollum from D-II to Drake to Iowa Metropolis, performs 37.5 minutes per sport and is without doubt one of the 5 most dear gamers to his staff in school basketball.
32. Clemson (24-10)
Brad Brownell has coached Clemson to a 3rd straight NCAA Event — and with a single-digit seed in each journey, too. This group is not nearly as good because the previous two years, but it surely’s obtained an opportunity at some noise within the Dance as long as level guard Dillon Hunter is controlling the tempo. The staff is most snug beating you within the mid-to-high 60s.
33. Georgia (22-10)
The Bulldogs have made two straight tournaments for the primary time since 2001 and 2002. Mike White’s staff likes to push the tempo, rating top-10 in common possession size and seventh nationally at 89.8 factors per sport. I am an enormous fan of sophomore Kanon Catchings, who would not lead the staff in scoring however undoubtedly leads the staff in Proper Performs on the Proper Time. The licensed bucket finder is sophomore Jeremiah Wilkerson (17.0 ppg).
34. Miami FL (25-8)
The Hurricanes have loved an immensely profitable 12 months 1 beneath former Duke assistant Jai Lucas. Miami is the most important turnaround within the sport this yr, going from seven wins a season in the past to 25 (and counting?) now. This staff was constructed solely from scratch and has gotten a superb seed behind Indiana switch Malik Reneau, Michigan switch Tre Donaldson and former five-star prospect Shelton Henderson.
35. Saint Louis (28-5)
The Billikens began 24-1 however have gone 4-4 heading into bracket play. They’re going to be a curious one to choose for/towards, however know this: SLU has been a top-5 efficient area purpose share offensive and defensive staff all season. The Payments fill it up in bunches. Robbie Avila — AKA Larry Nerd — is the focus however this staff can beat you with six completely different guys. Additionally performs quick and is terrific at getting high quality photographs from brief vary.
36. Texas A&M (21-11)
BuckyBall beneath first-year coach Bucky McMillan has introduced the Aggies to the Dance with a 21-11 file however not quite a lot of wins towards fellow event groups. The squad has performed its approach in as a consequence of, in no small half, having an overload of graybeards. A&M ranks No. 8 in general expertise, per KenPom, and has eight juniors and seniors in its rotation.
37. NC State (20-13)
A shock staff in Dayton, Will Wade’s Wolfpack aren’t barking confidently into the NCAAs, however at the very least it is a tourney journey in 12 months 1. That is a win for positive. State is 2-7 in its final 9, but it surely was solely two years in the past that this program went on that ridiculous 10-game profitable streak that led to a Last 4 berth as a No. 11 seed. State’s greatest shot at selecting off a few wins is the 3-pointer; the staff ranks Tenth nationally in accuracy from deep.
38. Miami College (31-1)
There was by no means a doubt about this staff getting in, and so now we see what the No. 4 points-per-game college can do on the most important stage. Travis Steele’s staff places up 90.4 per evening and is the one staff with seven gamers averaging double figures. The RedHawks did not beat a Quad 1 opponent this season however do know how one can win shut video games higher than anybody else: Their 8-1 file in one-possession endings is one of the best within the sport. What number of extra video games will this staff play? All of us agree: They’re a must-watch beginning on Wednesday vs. SMU in Dayton.
39. Santa Clara (26-8)
Dancing for the primary time since 1996! The metrics supported their clear-cut case forward of numerous bubble groups, too. The 26-8 Broncos are a enjoyable group. With Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s additionally within the area, this yr marks solely the second time the WCC has been a three-bid league since 2013. And with Gonzaga leaving for the Pac-12, the WCC in all probability won’t ever get three bids once more.
40. TCU (22-11)
Jamie Dixon continues to be underrated for what he is able to culling collectively at a program that does not get a lot consideration within the nationwide highlight. The Horned Frogs are within the NCAAs for the fourth time in 5 years; this has by no means occurred there. Now, this staff can be wildly unpredictable. Beat the likes of Florida, Iowa State and Texas Tech … whereas shedding to New Orleans, Notre Dame and Utah. Choose at your individual danger! Frogs ahead David Punch is without doubt one of the most underrated gamers within the nation.
41. Missouri (20-12)
The Tigers are within the Dance for a second straight yr. That hasn’t occurred since 2013. Dennis Gates’ staff claims wins over Florida, Tennessee and Vanderbilt, preferring to play by means of its senior massive man Mark Mitchell, who leads the staff in scoring. The Tigers have been up and down, however to beat them it’s important to match their physicality; that is the third-tallest staff in school basketball.
42. VCU (27-7)
Phil Martelli Jr. instantly will get the Rams into the NCAAs in his first season in Richmond. How’d he do it? VCU has just one loss since Jan. 10. One of many strongest mid-major manufacturers within the nation is led by a man who would not even begin! Terrence Hill Jr. leads the staff in scoring however is fourth in minutes and the primary man off the bench. Uncommon that’s ever the case for a staff ok to play within the area of 68.
43. South Florida (25-8)
Bryan Hodgson is without doubt one of the hottest names on this yr’s teaching carousel as a consequence of parlaying back-to-back 20-plus win seasons at Arkansas State with a right away event look out of the American. His Bulls had been clearly one of the best staff in that convention, profitable at a fast-pace tempo and doubling down on the risk by ranking top-10 in offensive-rebound share. Lead guard Wes Enis stirs the drink.
44. UCF (21-11)
Johnny Dawkins’ staff is not any metrics darling, however the Knights making the NCAAs is at all times a giant deal contemplating their lack of historical past. That is this system’s second bid since 2005. Guards Riley Kugel and Themus Fulks can warmth up in a jiffy for an offense that is vulnerable to pop above 80 factors most of the time.
45. SMU (20-13)
The Ponies barely break by means of to Dayton, they usually can in all probability thank their PR division for the help: SMU went from 19-8 to 20-13 as a consequence of an harm to level guard BJ Edwards. However SMU made it identified Edwards is predicted to play later this week, and that was sufficient to get this staff in. Whether or not it will possibly win a sport is one other query; this hasn’t seemed like a event staff for a month.
46. Texas (18-14)
The Longhorns had been one of many true toss-ups. What obtained ’em in? Six wins vs. the sector was nearly as good/higher than some other staff populating the bubble. The Horns have misplaced 5 of six, although. An oddity: Sean Miller will likely be teaching within the First 4 for a second straight yr; he was on this spot final season, when he was at Xavier and needed to coach towards … Texas.
47. McNeese (28-5)
Will Wade moved on to NC State, however the Cowboys are again within the event all the identical. New coach Invoice Armstrong guided this staff to a Southland convention title sport defeat of 28-5 Stephen F. Austin, however guess what? These guys are additionally 28-5 and rank top-70 at KenPom due to a headache of deployments within the backcourt: Larry Johnson, Tyshawn Archie and Javon Garcia mix for 44 factors per evening.
48. Akron (29-5)
The Zips are making their eighth look in class historical past and the fourth within the final 5 seasons after profitable a thriller Saturday evening over Toledo. Shammah Scott’s 3 obtained John Groce again to the tourney but once more, and is that this one of the best staff ever from Akron? The Zips’ 29 wins are a college file, they usually’re additionally the one staff to ever win three straight MAC convention titles. And look how dramatic the previous three journeys have been.
49. Excessive Level (30-4)
The Panthers made their NCAA Event debut a yr in the past beneath then-coach Alan Huss, who left to be the coach-in-waiting at Creighton. Flynn Clayman took over and Excessive Level — due to having an NIL funds north of $4 million, per sources — is even higher this yr. The Panthers are the champs out of the Large South with a 30-4 file and one loss since mid-December. It is all of the extra spectacular contemplating this staff solely has three gamers again from final season’s staff. Legit risk to steal a sport or two.
50. Northern Iowa (23-12)
Ben Jacobson’s program is within the NCAAs for the fifth time in his 21-year tenure, the primary exhibiting in a decade. The Panthers gained the Missouri Valley, changing into the primary staff to win 4 video games in 4 days in that beloved event. UNI performs one of many slowest tempos in school hoops, rating 363rd out of 365 in possessions per sport and permit a sport’s-lowest 61.3 ppg. They wanna pull a 62-59 upset sooooo badly. Title to know: senior ahead Ben Schwieger.
51. Hofstra (24-10)
One among my favourite pictures of this month was Hofstra coach/program legend Speedy Claxton sobbing into the arms of his lead assistant within the closing seconds of the Pleasure’s CAA title sport win over Monmouth. Claxton’s the best participant in program historical past and took this staff to the NCAAs in 2000. Its final journey got here in 2001 beneath Jay Wright. These are the groups and storylines we must always cherish as a lot as some other. By the way in which, Hofstra has an authorized capital-D Dude in junior level guard Cruz Davis.
52. Cal Baptist (25-8)
Lots of people did not see the ending as a result of it completed after 2 a.m. ET on Sunday evening on the East Coast, however the Lancers are of their first NCAA Event partly as a result of Utah Valley missed an alley-oop dunk that may’ve tied in within the closing seconds. They’re additionally right here due to Dominique Daniels Jr. (23.2), a diminutive level guard who is without doubt one of the five-or-so greatest mid-major gamers in school basketball.
53. Hawai’i (24-8)
The ‘Bows gained the Large West because the 2-seed in a terrific championship sport towards top-seeded UC Irvine and because of this are in one of the best event on the earth for the primary time in 10 years — getting there in its remaining season within the Large West (Hawai’i goes to the Mountain West subsequent season). Eran Ganot’s staff is constructed round heart Isaac Johnson, who had 22 within the Large West title sport.
54. North Dakota State (27-7)
Dave Richman has been quietly at it in Fargo since 2014, and this is the third staff he’ll be teaching within the NCAA Event. NDSU gained the Summit League for the primary time since 2020 on the backs of 5 guys who shoot higher than 37% from 3-point vary. The Bison tore by means of league play and have misplaced simply twice since Dec. 22.
55. Wright State (23-11)
The Raiders gained the Horizon League for the fourth time, this yr’s incarnation beneath second-year coach Clint Sargeant. The Raiders do not seem like an apparent Cinderella candidate on paper, however they have a firecracker of a freshman ahead in Kellen Pickett, who averages 8.7 factors and 5.4 rebounds however was a beast within the convention title sport: 17 factors, seven rebounds, 4 blocks, three assists and two steals.
56. Troy (22-11)
Trojans is the back-to-back Solar Belt champs and dancing for the fourth time general. Scott Cross’ success has led to his title being buzzed about for the Georgia Tech emptiness, however he is centered on attempting to make historical past and get Troy its first NCAA Event win, ever. This staff pays the lease with a sturdy duo combo of forwards: Victor Valdes and Thomas Dowd mix for higher than 29 factors, 14 rebounds and two steals per sport.
57. Kennesaw State (21-13)
A staff that misplaced its main scorer early within the season to a federal investigation tied to point-shaving and unlawful playing exercise rallied to win CUSA. What a sport we have now right here. The Owls are of their second NCAA Event (the primary in 2023) after beating Louisiana Tech within the league championship sport. Sophomore guard RJ Johnson is excessive on the scouting report: He hits 43.3% of his triples and is the staff’s greatest scorer.
58. Idaho (21-14)
Welcome again, Vandals! The champs of the Large Sky are within the NCAAs for the primary time in 36 years. They gained Starch Insanity with 4 wins in 4 days to finish the drought. Idaho’s energy is its defensive rebounding: The Vandals rank top-five within the nation in defensive-rebound charge. It is nice to have some recent blood within the bracket yearly.
59. Penn (18-11)
Fran McCaffery was fired from Iowa one yr in the past. He obtained the job at his alma mater and simply watched TJ Energy placed on probably the greatest convention title-game performances you will ever see: 44 factors, 14 rebounds and two 3-pointers within the remaining 10 seconds to beat top-seeded Yale within the Ivy League remaining. Penn, which has essentially the most Ivy bids of any college, is dancing for simply the second time since 2007.
60. Furman (22-12)
Cue the Zoolander meme: Fur-MAN is again within the Dance and so sizzling proper now. Bob Richey’s staff appeared within the bracket in 2023 and proceeded to provide that tourney one in every of its greatest first-weekend highlights. This yr’s Paladins group took some time to return collectively — and battled accidents — however no coach with current Large Dance expertise ought to be taken calmly. FU? F sure, welcome again. Be looking out for freshman phenom Alex Wilkins.
61. UMBC (24-8)
4 letters that can ceaselessly stay in March Insanity lore. The Retrievers are the kings of the America East this yr and are again within the event for the primary time since 2018 when, you already know, the primary 16-over-a-1 upset transpired within the type of the unforgettable 74-54 upset of top-seeded Virginia. I believed this staff was going to be a 15, however the committee despatched it to Dayton. Woof!
62. Siena (23-11)
Onerous to consider it has been 16 years because the Saints went marching by means of March into the NCAA tourney. However they’re again, champs of the MAAC — in its remaining yr being known as the MAAC, by the way in which. Bummer! Coached by Syracuse legend Gerry McNamara (oh sure, it is true!), Siena paradoxically sufficient isn’t a staff that will get it performed from deep. The Saints rank exterior the highest 300 in 3-point share.
63. Queens (21-13)
Solely 4 colleges in historical past have certified for the NCAA Event of their first yr of eligibility (not counting the 1939 event); Queens College is one in every of them. The place is Queens U? Not in NYC. Based mostly in Charlotte, the champs of the ASUN went 21-13 and win with an offense-first strategy. Coach Grant Leonard shouldn’t be exhausting to search out: he is identified for his propensity to don a loud sweater whereas teaching the staff.
64. Howard (23-10)
The Bison are the bullies of the MEAC, now having made the NCAAs thrice previously 4 seasons beneath Kenny Blakeney. Howard’s 4 high scorers are guards and/or wings, with 6-7 junior Cedric Taylor III main the staff at 17.3 factors, 6.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.3 blocks. He is the one participant in D-I this season to common 17+ ppg, 6+ rpg, 3+ apg, 1+ spg and 1+ bpg.
65. Tennessee State (23-9)
A really cool story right here, because the Tigers aren’t solely dancing for the primary time in 32 years, they’re doing so whereas being coached by former Duke All-American Nolan Smith. Who’s in his first season on the job. A job that he took in the course of final summer time. The champs of the OVC are premier pickpockets, averaging 9.4 steals.
66. LIU (24-10)
Fins up for the Sharks! And congrats to Rod Strickland. The previous DePaul level guard and longlasting NBA participant has paid his dues and flipped this program solely. From 3-26 in his first season, in 2022-23, to 24-10 this yr. LIU is the champion out of the NEC.
67. Lehigh (18-16)
The Mountain Hawks get their move from All-Patriot League level guard Nasir Whitlock, who averages 21 factors per evening. He’se the man who hit that unbelievable shot from past halfcourt within the convention semis to beat Holy Cross. With out that play, Brett Reed’s staff is not right here. It is the varsity’s first Dance ticket since 2012 when, bear in mind? Yep: CJ McCollum and Co. beat Duke in a 15-over-2 basic.
68. Prairie View A&M (18-17)
The Panthers had been the 8-seed within the SWAC however discovered the magic to win 4 video games and make their first NCAA Event since 2019. Coach Byron Smith is in his Tenth season and loves watching his staff zip up and down the ground. The SWAC has gained a First 4 sport in three of the previous 4 tournaments.
